Volunteer sport coaching in Ghana, coach basketball with Projects Abroad

Overseas Volunteer Sport Coaching: Basketball in Ghana

Basketball has often been forced to take a backseat in Ghana, due to the nation's obsession with football. In recent years, however, Ghanaian basketball has been on the rise, this is especially evident in the capital, Accra, where many new courts have been built, increasing people's curiosity about the sport. Ghanaians are finding that they are naturally very well suited to the power and speed of the game.

Coach Basketball to Children with Projects Abroad

You can get involved by volunteering abroad as a basketball coach on one of our sport placements. Projects Abroad work with two basketball clubs based in Accra, the Accra Warriors and the Accra Flames. Each has a junior team running alongside an established senior team, with ages ranging from 10 - 18 years old.

Teams train from Monday to Friday with matches mainly being arranged for Saturday mornings. Like other sports in Ghana, basketball training is usually left until later in the afternoon once the heat has died down a little. To coach basketball you only need a good understanding of the game and an enthusiasm to get involved.

Your Role Volunteering Abroad on a Basketball Project in Ghana

At first look basketball seems to rely quite heavily on its participants being physically fit. Whilst this is true, people who have never been properly taught the simple structures and strategies of the game, don't realise how much the game is about tactics and shape. This is where volunteer coaches can really help. By introducing simple training methods you can lay the foundations for the children's progression.

Training consists of fitness sessions, accurate passing drills, man-to-man and zonal marking sessions, plus team structure and strategy sessions. Depending on your own previous experience and knowledge of the sport you will be able to take coaching sessions or support others. Whatever role you can play you will be making a difference and you will be appreciated by your colleagues and students.

Having keen and able athletes who are willing to learn is every coach's dream. Whatever your level of involvement, this is a great opportunity to play your part in the development of Ghana's next big game!